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Relatively Seeking #1
One Leaf Too Many
When tragedy tears a family apart, what can repair the rift?
Bailey Edwards knows very little about her relatives, other than a few details about her grandparents' tragic car wreck in 1969. Their deaths traumatized her teenaged mother and three uncles, so Bailey always assumed it tore the siblings apart.
As she delves into her genealogy, she begins to suspect something else caused the rift, especially when she finds faded photos of a mystery girl tucked behind others in her grandmother’s photo albums. A crusader at heart, Bailey sets out to mend fences at any cost while dragging her two closest friends, Jessica and Shannon, into the drama.
But as they seek to discover why Bailey’s relatives became distant, they run into closed doors a powerful political family wants to keep shut, particularly when it comes to the cause of her grandparents’ accident fifty years before.
Will she overturn one leaf too many on her family tree?
Bailey Edwards knows very little about her relatives, other than a few details about her grandparents' tragic car wreck in 1969. Their deaths traumatized her teenaged mother and three uncles, so Bailey always assumed it tore the siblings apart.
As she delves into her genealogy, she begins to suspect something else caused the rift, especially when she finds faded photos of a mystery girl tucked behind others in her grandmother’s photo albums. A crusader at heart, Bailey sets out to mend fences at any cost while dragging her two closest friends, Jessica and Shannon, into the drama.
But as they seek to discover why Bailey’s relatives became distant, they run into closed doors a powerful political family wants to keep shut, particularly when it comes to the cause of her grandparents’ accident fifty years before.
Will she overturn one leaf too many on her family tree?
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2018
91 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Julie B. Cosgrove
26 books51 followersEven before Julie B Cosgrove became a multi-published, award-winning novelist, she’d developed a passion for words at a young age. She solved the word games in the daily newspapers. She and her mother shared many fun hours playing Scrabble. Then, another passion developed― whodunnits. She loved the Charlie Chan, Sherlock Holmes, and Hercule Perot movies that played on Saturday afternoons on TV. Nancy Drew and the romantic mystery novels of the late Mary Stewart kept her eyes dancing over the pages through her school years. Now, she has mysteries stacked up on her watchlist on Britbox and a long list of cozies on her ereader’s to-be-read list.
Later in her adult life, her passion for Christ spurred her to write faith-based fiction and devotionals for several publications, which she has been doing since 2009. Her blog, Where Did You Find God Today? now has readers in over fifty countries.
But her passion remains mystery, the cozier the better. When her sister asked her, “Why don’t you write them?”, she pondered it and decided to give it a go. Her first, Dumpster Dicing, won Best Mystery by the Texas Association of Authors in 2017. Since then, she has been contracted to write a total of 12 mysteries, nine of which have been published as of early 2021. She has three series―The Bunco Biddies Mysteries, The Relatively Seeking Mysteries, and the Wordplay Mysteries.
You can find all of her fiction and nonfiction books as well as her blog's link on her website, www.juliebcosgrove.com.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 1, 2019
This was a mixed bag for me. I liked the solving of a family tree mystery. What fell short for me was some of the dialogue, the behavior of Bailey and the ending.
August 26, 2019
I had never read a book about a mystery that happened when a woman was researching her genealogy.
I thought this was a unique book. The cover depicted the story line very well. I liked the idea of the leaves on a tree and how this could have been "One Leaf Too Many".
Bailey wanted to know more about her Mother's family. Little did she know that there could be threats on her and her friend's lives when she searched for a missing relative. There was much deceit and cover up on one family member's part. What a surprise to learn who had kept all these secrets - to save face and the reputation of this family! Wow!
I am very much interested in reading the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book.
I thought this was a unique book. The cover depicted the story line very well. I liked the idea of the leaves on a tree and how this could have been "One Leaf Too Many".
Bailey wanted to know more about her Mother's family. Little did she know that there could be threats on her and her friend's lives when she searched for a missing relative. There was much deceit and cover up on one family member's part. What a surprise to learn who had kept all these secrets - to save face and the reputation of this family! Wow!
I am very much interested in reading the next book in this series. I highly recommend this book.
March 8, 2021
This would be better titled One Book too Many. WARNING: I tell the story in this review, so if this is a book you think you want to read, you may want to stop here. I’m writing this because I read the book for a reading challenge, and I find the whole story so ridiculous I need to get if off my chest – or out of my head – or something.
The worst part to me, is the thinking behind the behaviour of these churchgoing, socially upstanding people. It’s all about what other people might think of them, when the secrets they are keeping are of such little importance compared to their own behaviour in hiding them. And please keep in mind, it’s the author’s depiction I am critiquing, not churchgoing people per se.
Three female friends around 30 years old scream with excitement over a bible study class they see advertised. And no, it isn’t being run by some studly young minister, but an 80-year-old woman. That’s okay. It’s their thing. Anyway, the first class is about Jesus’ genealogy which encourages our main character (MC) to research her own family as neither parent will talk about their families, and she barely knows any of her relatives.
MC discovers that Mum has a sister two years older who eloped at age sixteen. The sort of silly thing a sixteen-year-old might do but hardly the ‘devious behaviour’ it is described as. The young husband’s family threatens to disinherit him if he doesn’t agree to an annulment, so the marriage is duly annulled. Then the young ex-wife finds herself pregnant. Well, the scandal. The girl is allowed to attend Mum’s 16th birthday, child in tow, but after that she is not welcome. Neither family want her around raising eyebrows. Forty years later Mum still has had no contact with her sister and her name has never been mentioned.
Then there’s Dad. Turns out it was his rental car that was stolen by a fellow college friend who then ran down Mum’s parents and killed them all those years ago, dying himself from injuries. Apparently, the fellow was interested in the ex-wife with the young child, but she wasn’t interested in him. He persisted and ex-wife’s father (also Mum’s father, of course) hit the lad in the face with the butt of his gun and broke two teeth. You couldn't just talk about it? Well, that made the lad pretty mad which is why he stole the car and deliberately caused the accident that ended up killing Mum’s parents and himself.
Dad has kept his (very) limited association with this event quiet all these years. At the time, his name was kept out of the newspapers as the renter of the stolen car, because the police chief knew his dad, etc, etc. Hardly something to be secretive about, tragic as it was, but it’s this respectability thing again. And of course, Dad has never told Mum what he knows about the death of her parents, but she has a pretty good idea, anyway, as she knew all the people involved back then.
But here’s where it gets nasty. As MC gets closer to finding out about Dad’s connection, he pays two churchgoing acquaintances to hire a thug to trash her apartment and steal her laptop, thus discouraging her from further investigation. It doesn’t work, of course, the police get involved and eventually Dad has to confess to his actions. MC’s cat is also hurt in the event. Dad, feeling guilty about that, pays for the vet but is upset because he didn’t authorize the cat to get hurt and wants the money back he paid for the thug. After all, he only wanted to frighten and traumatize his daughter. Yea gods and little fishes.
But it’s all okay. MC forgives her parents, Mum forgives Dad for- whatever - and MC gets to meet some more relatives.
There is a second book in the series if anyone is interested.
The worst part to me, is the thinking behind the behaviour of these churchgoing, socially upstanding people. It’s all about what other people might think of them, when the secrets they are keeping are of such little importance compared to their own behaviour in hiding them. And please keep in mind, it’s the author’s depiction I am critiquing, not churchgoing people per se.
Three female friends around 30 years old scream with excitement over a bible study class they see advertised. And no, it isn’t being run by some studly young minister, but an 80-year-old woman. That’s okay. It’s their thing. Anyway, the first class is about Jesus’ genealogy which encourages our main character (MC) to research her own family as neither parent will talk about their families, and she barely knows any of her relatives.
MC discovers that Mum has a sister two years older who eloped at age sixteen. The sort of silly thing a sixteen-year-old might do but hardly the ‘devious behaviour’ it is described as. The young husband’s family threatens to disinherit him if he doesn’t agree to an annulment, so the marriage is duly annulled. Then the young ex-wife finds herself pregnant. Well, the scandal. The girl is allowed to attend Mum’s 16th birthday, child in tow, but after that she is not welcome. Neither family want her around raising eyebrows. Forty years later Mum still has had no contact with her sister and her name has never been mentioned.
Then there’s Dad. Turns out it was his rental car that was stolen by a fellow college friend who then ran down Mum’s parents and killed them all those years ago, dying himself from injuries. Apparently, the fellow was interested in the ex-wife with the young child, but she wasn’t interested in him. He persisted and ex-wife’s father (also Mum’s father, of course) hit the lad in the face with the butt of his gun and broke two teeth. You couldn't just talk about it? Well, that made the lad pretty mad which is why he stole the car and deliberately caused the accident that ended up killing Mum’s parents and himself.
Dad has kept his (very) limited association with this event quiet all these years. At the time, his name was kept out of the newspapers as the renter of the stolen car, because the police chief knew his dad, etc, etc. Hardly something to be secretive about, tragic as it was, but it’s this respectability thing again. And of course, Dad has never told Mum what he knows about the death of her parents, but she has a pretty good idea, anyway, as she knew all the people involved back then.
But here’s where it gets nasty. As MC gets closer to finding out about Dad’s connection, he pays two churchgoing acquaintances to hire a thug to trash her apartment and steal her laptop, thus discouraging her from further investigation. It doesn’t work, of course, the police get involved and eventually Dad has to confess to his actions. MC’s cat is also hurt in the event. Dad, feeling guilty about that, pays for the vet but is upset because he didn’t authorize the cat to get hurt and wants the money back he paid for the thug. After all, he only wanted to frighten and traumatize his daughter. Yea gods and little fishes.
But it’s all okay. MC forgives her parents, Mum forgives Dad for- whatever - and MC gets to meet some more relatives.
There is a second book in the series if anyone is interested.
November 13, 2018
A unique genealogical mystery. This is an empowering faith based mystery filled with characters growing and maturing through the leading of our loving Heavenly Father. The discussion of genealogical research makes this book both unique and informative. Family and friendships throughout are realistic and intricately weaved. I wonder what surprises I'll dig up from my family tree. I would highly recommend this book. I received this book for free from the author for an honest review. The opinions are all mine.
January 15, 2019
4.5 stars for an exciting cozy mystery about one of my favorite subjects--genealogy! The characters are living and breathing; the good ones are loveable and the not-so-good ones are appropriately slimy. The plot is a twisty roller coaster ride that makes you laugh out loud, gasp with concern for the heroine and her friends, nod your head in agreement at Shannon's wise words and Chase's level-headedness, and sigh at the MC's stubborn quest for truth and justice that lands her in all kinds of trouble! Recommended for all readers of cozy mysteries. If you're not into genealogy when you start reading One Leaf Too Many, by the end you may change your mind!
November 20, 2018
When Bailey’s interest in genealogy leads her to borrow an old photo album, she uncovers a family secret that’s been hidden for years. With help from her friends Jessica and Shannon, they search into the details of a deadly car crash. Someone has hacked into Bailey’s online accounts and threats begin to mount. A handsome detective and childhood friend, Chase, gets involved in the case.
Ms. Cosgrove has written a motivating page turner with a surprise ending. Ms. Cosgrove’s work is always well written and holds the reader’s interest to the very last word.
Ms. Cosgrove has written a motivating page turner with a surprise ending. Ms. Cosgrove’s work is always well written and holds the reader’s interest to the very last word.
December 29, 2019
I really liked the synopsis of this book. I thought it would be a good read since I am into genealogy and it seemed like a mystery. I was surprised it was a Christian book as well.
Although, I had to keep telling myself to finish it since I am way under my goal for 2019 in reading, lol. Some authors have a way of pulling you into the story and taking you into the book. This unfortunately did not do that. It felt like it was a high school student's jab at a story. I have yet come across a Christian fiction book that has the ability to do this sadly.
Although, I had to keep telling myself to finish it since I am way under my goal for 2019 in reading, lol. Some authors have a way of pulling you into the story and taking you into the book. This unfortunately did not do that. It felt like it was a high school student's jab at a story. I have yet come across a Christian fiction book that has the ability to do this sadly.
April 30, 2019
Inspired by the "Begats" of Matthew in the Bible, Bailey sets off to discover her family's past. Piecing it all together turns out to be a dangerous proposition because someone doesn't want the truth to come out in the open. This lively, page-turning mystery kept me intrigued all the way through. Highly recommended.
July 6, 2019
How deep should a person dig to find out family secrets?
As Bailey and her two friends that are helping her, dig into Bailey's genealogy she digs up family secrets that have been buried for fifty plus years. She is hoping a family reunion will bring her family back together again.
As Bailey and her two friends that are helping her, dig into Bailey's genealogy she digs up family secrets that have been buried for fifty plus years. She is hoping a family reunion will bring her family back together again.
August 30, 2019
A slow start but a fast-paced turn around.
At first I wasn't sure I'd keep reading this book. After 3 or 4 chapters, I couldn't figure out where the story was heading. But the pace picked up and a mystery unfolded. The mystery kept me reading until the end.
At first I wasn't sure I'd keep reading this book. After 3 or 4 chapters, I couldn't figure out where the story was heading. But the pace picked up and a mystery unfolded. The mystery kept me reading until the end.
October 15, 2019
Family, Church, Friends and secrets
A well written and entertaining story that keeps the reader wanting more. A very surprising twist at the end that was well thought out. Looking forward to future stories.
A well written and entertaining story that keeps the reader wanting more. A very surprising twist at the end that was well thought out. Looking forward to future stories.
February 22, 2019
I really enjoyed this story, it was varied with the characters.
Will certainly look for future stories.
Will certainly look for future stories.
August 26, 2019
Interesting premise. The book took off for me after the sheriff showed up on the page. :-)
October 22, 2019
A different twist to the family skeleton in the closet. It was a good read. The ending became a bit convoluted and I wasn't completely satisfied, but I will definitely continue with the series.
April 18, 2021
This was really good.
June 30, 2022
leaf
It was a good story with a good lesson for everyone who looks for family. It shows us what can happen when we trust in God and accept each other’s love.
It was a good story with a good lesson for everyone who looks for family. It shows us what can happen when we trust in God and accept each other’s love.
September 5, 2022
I loved this book! I'm into family genealogy myself.
July 19, 2020
3 stars isn't a bad rating---it's a solid "liked it." Interesting story, fun characters. Easy to read---no paragraph-long sentences that ramble and ramble. I really admired the tenacity of genealogist/sleuth Bailey. Would read more books in the series.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews